What is a Detox?

Today we’re going to chat about something I get asked about a lot: detoxing. What is it? Does it mean starving yourself? How long do you detox? What can you eat?

There are many detox programs out there, and people detox for different reasons. These include weight loss, flushing toxins from the body, resetting your “taste buds”, and identifying food sensitivities. Detox programs can incorporate shakes or smoothies, or include food. I’ve seen them last from three to thirty days.

I have completed two detoxes, and started my third detox yesterday. The first time I decided to detox, I was intrigued by the challenge, and also curious as to how I would feel during and after the detox. The second time, my husband and I detoxed together along with my sister-in-law and brother-in-law. Both times I lost nine pounds. This time I am detoxing (with hubby again) to lose the weight I gained after overindulging too many weeks in a row, as well as “clean house” and get back to my good eating habits.

Each time, I followed Green Smoothie Girl’s 26-Day Detox Program, which I highly recommend. The program is based on eating 100%, mostly raw, whole foods. Included is a manual and quick start guide. Her plan is well thought out and is recommended by several doctors. She also offers two “full support” detoxes a year which includes daily emails and a group forum. I highly recommend the full support option if you are trying it for the first time.

I chose Green Smoothie Girl’s Detox program for many reasons

1. She has all of the scientific data supporting each step of the detox

2. She explains the “why” of each step, and the reason for each phase

4. She offers the detox in two levels – beginner or advanced

5. No special equipment is necessary for the beginner

6. The detox includes cleansing the colon, kidneys, liver, and gall bladder

7. Her manual includes a section on transitioning back to real life after the detox, along with many other insights

Food we don’t eat on the detox

For the GSG detox, the following foods are eliminated:

Alcohol, caffeine, tobacco

Coffee or tea

Dairy Products

Eggs

Sugars and sweeteners

White flour, rice, pasta

Yeast

Animal flesh

Salt

You’re probably like “Whoa! What CAN you eat?” I know what you mean – I was super nervous when I read that list for the first time! The good news is, GSG tells you what to eat for every meal, and includes recipes and shopping lists. You’re basically eating fruits, veggies, and grains, along with some nuts and seeds.

The food is easily digestible, which gives the body a chance to focus on healing other systems. Did you know your body uses 35% of your energy in digesting food? That’s a lot of energy, and another great reason to detox. It’s a time to be kind to your body, nourish it, and allow it to repair itself.

Detoxing is a challenge

While a detox is great for your body, it can be quite a challenge. As I write this, my husband is grumbling and growling. We are in Phase 1 of the detox, which means no sugar (including fruit). I’d say this is the hardest part of the process – we are going through sugar and caffeine withdrawals, which for us means low-grade headaches and feeling tired. We are determined to move on, as Phase 2 brings tons of energy and clarity! And as my husband says, we are Louderbacks and Louderbacks don’t quit!

Initially the detox is an investment, but once you have the manual you can use it over and over. I’ve used it three times, and my husband has used it twice, so I feel we definitely got our money’s worth. The manual is super informative and includes information that helps you stay motivated throughout the detox. You can also choose full support or do-it-yourself version.

Thanks so much for checking the blog out, Renee! I’m excited that you like it!